Water and justice : reading the irony of Qoheleth 2:4-6 against the selfish distribution of resources on the African continent

Abstract

The whole text of Qoheleth 2 notes the disappointing effect of the misuse of power to gather wealth for oneself to the detriment of many. In accord with the irony of Qoheleth 2:4-6, this article investigates the appropriate role of governments in addressing problems related to the availability and issues surrounding distribution of resources, especially water, as a matter of public justice. Qoheleth 2:4-6 is contrasted with Ancient Near Eastern inscriptions in which kings rather boast for the good they did for their people, for example, the provision of water. The unsatisfactory feeling of Qoheleth discouraged the self-centred distribution of resources for personal gain.